Duelling dragons to cause a stir at Wykeham Lakes for third year

Dragon boats are set to go head-to-head for a third year at Wykeham Lakes.

Published:13:45Wednesday 01 May 2013

A charity boat race which has raised more than £20,000 for causes in the Scarborough area is inviting paddlers to take part for a third year.

Dragon boats will go head-to-head at Wykeham Lakes on Sunday, June 2 to raise funds for the Rainbow Centre and other local charities.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Scarborough Cavaliers, the event will see teams of 17 paddle their vessels over a 250-metre course in a series of heats culminating in a grand final.

The club’s Peter Howgate said: “Last year we had 18 dragon boats racing but we are hoping for 20 this year. It’s a great family fun day out, which last year saw a crowd of 1,200 people cheering on the crews.”

Businesses and organisations are invited to sponsor a team at a cost of £360 and paddlers are encouraged to raise £50 each in donations, which will be passed on to local causes.

A team consists of up to 20 people - 16 paddlers plus a drummer and three reserves. Male and female teams must be 12-years-old and be able to swim 50 metres with a buoyancy aid, which are provided by the organisers.

Mr Howgate added: “It may be that an organisation or company wants to sponsor a dragon boat but cannot provide a full team of paddlers. On the other hand there will be groups of friends who can paddle but not be able to raise the boat sponsorship fee. In these cases the Rotary Club will marry these together to create dragon boat teams.”

Safety boats will patrol the lakes throughout the day and professional helmsmen will be on hand to give basic instruction. There will also be race commentaries throughout the event, which takes place from 10am to 4pm.

To sponsor a boat call Mr Howgate on 01723 859843 or 07881 974691 or Sally Brown on 01723 859151 or 07703 206839.